Julie Rains's blog

8 Cheap, Easy, and Not-So-Obvious Ways to Invest in a Company's Stock

There are many ways to invest besides buying shares in a company's stock through a brokerage firm. Discover eight cheap (or free!) ways.

4 Quick Ways to Decide if a Company Is Worth Your Investment

You don't have to be an insider to glean valuable insights about a company. These four public sources of info can tell you a lot of what you need to know before you invest.

Keep an Eye on Your Money With These 7 Online Investing Tools and Apps

If you can tolerate watching your nest egg rise and fall, these tools and apps can help you stay tuned to market news, manage your portfolio, and do research.

From 0 to 18: Frugal Tips for Every Year of Your Child’s Life

Children are blessings, but raising them from birth to young adulthood can be expensive. Follow these tips to spend wisely and save money at every age.

5 Sure-Fire Signs of an Investment Scam

Even well-educated and honest people can get conned. Learn the signs of a scheme to avoid losing your savings.

The 3-Step Plan to Choosing Your First (or Next) Mutual Fund

Choosing your first mutual fund may seem daunting. A small investment of time and these easy steps can help you get started building a portfolio.

Using Time Horizons to Make Smarter Investments

A time horizon is the length of time you can leave money in an investment before you need it. Apply this concept to improve your financial health, now and later.

Begin Your Investing Career Right With Some Mutual Fund Basics

Buying mutual funds is a simple way to build an investment portfolio. Here are the basics to get you started.

22 Fun and Free Summertime Exercise Ideas

Summer is the perfect time to have fun outside and get fit. Here are more than 20 ways to enjoy yourself and exercise at the same time.

10 Ways to Lower Medicare Part D Costs

Learn how speaking with a pharmacist can help you save hundreds of dollars each year.

How to Compare Medicare Part D Plans: A Beginner’s Guide

Not all Medicare Part D plans are created equal. Find out how to save up to 75% on prescription copays.

5 Best Online Brokerages

Investing is easier than you might imagine, especially with help from the right online brokerage. Get started with one of these brokerages for $500 or less.

7 Places Teens (and Adults) Can Learn About Money

Opportunities to develop financial literacy are closer than you think. Here are seven nearby places to gain practical skills with lifelong benefits.

9 LinkedIn Changes Every Job Hunter Should Make

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for you on LinkedIn. Follow this advice to ensure that when they find your profile, they'll like what they see.

Simple Ways to Get the Healthcare You Need Without Overspending

Navigating health insurance can be intimidating — and expensive. But with a few simple steps, you really can get the healthcare you need without overspending.

Get the Response You Want With Friendly, Professional Email

If you want to influence people and get what you want — at work and beyond — learn the art of writing friendly, professional emails.

4 Ways Your IRA Beats Your Savings Account

You already know that you should save for retirement, but it's important to understand why that money should be in retirement-specific account.

53 Fun Nights Out for $10 or Less

You really can have a fun night out without digging deep into your wallet. Sample local offerings, get creative, and have a great time with these activities.

Easy, Frugal Ways to Have People Over (Even If You Don't Cook and Clean)

Don't get intimidated by hosting dinner parties. Instead, discover great ways to gather people together that require minimal cooking and cleaning.

12 Ways to Improve Your Performance at Work

Apart from the satisfaction of a job well done, becoming better at your job can lead to a raise or a promotion (or both!). Here's how to make it happen.